Cycling the Isle of Wight: Best Routes & Bike Hire Options

Cycling the Isle of Wight: Best Routes & Bike Hire Options

The Isle of Wight is a cyclist’s paradise, offering over 200 miles of picturesque cycle routes through rolling countryside, picturesque villages, and breathtaking coastal paths. Whether you're after a leisurely ride along scenic seafronts or a challenging climb through rugged terrain, the island caters to cyclists of all abilities. Recognised as one of the UK’s top cycling destinations, it provides a mix of flat trails, winding country lanes, and exhilarating off-road tracks. With plenty of bike hire options available, exploring the Isle of Wight on two wheels is not only accessible but also one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty.

Let's dive into some of the best routes on the Isle of Wight for your next cycling holiday.

Top Cycling Routes on the Isle of Wight

🚴🏻 Round the Island Cycle Route

Description: The Round the Island Cycle Route is a 65-mile circular trail that showcases the Isle of Wight's diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and lush countryside to dramatic coastal cliffs. It offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s natural beauty while taking in historic landmarks and charming villages along the way.

Highlights: Cyclists can enjoy stunning sea views, pass through quaint villages like Yarmouth and Bembridge, and explore sites such as Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle. The route also features a mix of quiet country lanes and scenic coastal roads.

Difficulty: This route is best suited for experienced cyclists due to its length and challenging hilly sections.

Tips: Breaking the ride into multiple days can make it more manageable. Be prepared for elevation changes and ensure your bike is equipped for long-distance cycling.

🚴🏻 Red Squirrel Trail

Description: The Red Squirrel Trail is a 32-mile mostly traffic-free route that runs from Cowes to Sandown, passing through lush woodlands, wetlands, and peaceful countryside. Named after the island’s native red squirrels, this scenic trail is perfect for nature lovers.

Highlights: The route winds through forests where cyclists may spot red squirrels, deer, and other wildlife. It also passes through charming villages and offers beautiful views of the island’s diverse landscapes.

Difficulty: This is an easy to moderate route, making it ideal for families and casual cyclists.

Tips: Due to some gravel and off-road sections, hybrid or mountain bikes are recommended. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picturesque stop-off points along the way.

🚴🏻 Tennyson Trail

Description: The Tennyson Trail is a breathtaking 14-mile off-road route that stretches from Carisbrooke to Alum Bay, following the chalk ridges of the island. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the coastline and countryside.

Highlights: This trail passes the famous Tennyson Monument, dedicated to poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, and provides stunning vistas of the Needles and surrounding sea. The rugged terrain and open landscapes make it a thrilling ride.

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, best suited for mountain bikers and those comfortable with off-road cycling.

Tips: Ensure your bike is suitable for off-road conditions, as the trail can be rough in places. Bring plenty of water, especially in warm weather, as there are limited refreshment stops.

🚴🏻 Sunshine Trail

Description: The Sunshine Trail is a 12-mile circular route linking the seaside towns of Sandown and Shanklin with the charming village of Godshill. This picturesque ride combines quiet country lanes with scenic bridleways.

Highlights: Cyclists can enjoy rolling farmland, traditional thatched cottages in Godshill, and stunning coastal views. The route offers a mix of countryside and seaside scenery, making it a varied and enjoyable ride.

Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for most cyclists with a reasonable fitness level.

Tips: Hybrid bikes are ideal for this trail. Be mindful of pedestrians on shared pathways, especially in busier sections near tourist spots. A stop in Godshill for tea and cake is highly recommended!

Bike Hire Options on the Isle of Wight

Wight Cycle Hire

Yarmouth and Newport, Isle of Wight

Operating since 2005, Wight Cycle Hire provides a range of bicycles, including electric bikes and tandems. They have hire centers in Yarmouth and Newport, with island-wide delivery available for hires of one day or more.

Routefifty7

Shanklin, Isle of Wight

Routefifty7 offers premium bicycle and e-bike hire services. Located in Shanklin, they provide access to various cycle trails and offer island-wide delivery for a fee. Advance booking is recommended, especially during the winter period.

The Duver Hire Co

Bembridge, Isle of Wight

Situated at Duver Marina in Bembridge Harbour, The Duver Hire Co offers both bicycle and car hire services. They provide a selection of bikes suitable for exploring the island's scenic routes.

South Island Cycle Hire

Freshwater, Isle of Wight

Based at Adrian’s Bike Shop in Freshwater, South Island Cycle Hire offers a range of bicycles for hire. Their location in West Wight provides a perfect starting point to explore the island's beautiful countryside and coastline.

Isle Cycle

Sandown, Isle of Wight

Isle Cycle provides bike hire services in Sandown, with island-wide delivery available. They offer a variety of bicycles suitable for different terrains and preferences.

TAV Cycles

Ryde, Isle of Wight

Located in Ryde, TAV Cycles offers bicycle hire services, though delivery is not available. They provide a range of bikes for hire to explore the island.

Two Elements

Cowes, Isle of Wight

Based in Cowes, Two Elements offers bike hire services with island-wide delivery. They provide various bicycles suitable for exploring the Isle of Wight.

Before planning your trip, it's advisable to check the latest information and book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.

Looking for more Inspiration for your Isle of Wight Break?

The Isle of Wight offers a diverse cycling experience, from scenic coastal rides to challenging countryside routes. Whether you're an avid cyclist or a casual rider, hiring a bike is the perfect way to explore. Embrace the adventure—rent a bike and discover the island’s beauty on two wheels!

If you're looking for more inspiration of where to go and what to eat, then check out our top 10 things to do during your Isle of Wight holiday or even our best walking & hiking trails. Need to know how to get to the Isle of Wight? We've got you covered!

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